In the ever-evolving world of public transportation, leadership is more than just managing day-to-day operations — it’s about inspiring trust, fostering collaboration, and creating space for innovation. Mike Heidkamp, former Chief Operations Officer of Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT), exemplifies this kind of leadership.
During his tenure, Mike brought a refreshing approach to operations by focusing not only on efficiency and reliability, but also on the people who keep the system moving — our frontline operators. One of his most notable initiatives was the formation of PRT’s first-ever Operator Focus Group. This groundbreaking step gave operators a seat at the table, allowing their voices, experiences, and ideas to directly influence operational decisions. It was a clear sign that under Mike’s leadership, communication would be a two-way street.
What sets Mike apart is his trust in the people he leads. He doesn’t believe in micromanagement — instead, he empowers others to do their jobs with autonomy and confidence. That trust, in turn, fosters loyalty, accountability, and a stronger team dynamic across the board.
Those of us who had the opportunity to work with Mike experienced firsthand his steady presence and genuine commitment to service. His approachability, strategic mindset, and respect for the workforce helped strengthen internal relationships and elevate operational standards throughout the organization.
Mike Heidkamp’s legacy at Pittsburgh Regional Transit isn’t just about the programs he launched — it’s about the culture he helped build. A culture rooted in respect, collaboration, and forward-thinking.
Andre Carr
Director of Service and Delivery
PRT
My time with Mike during the APTA Emerging Leaders Program (23-24) left a lasting impact on me, both professionally and personally. As a mentor, Mike led an exercise that taught me profound lessons in humility and leadership-insights I carry with me every day. One of the tangible reminders created during that leadership exercise still lives in my professional bag, a symbol of the mindset he helped instill. His influence helped shape the foundation of the team I later created, embedding those leadership principles into the way I work and lead today.
Mat Olson
HDR
I'm writing regarding Mike Heidkamp and the working relationship we have had. Mike was always the kind of guy who never forgot where he came from. He was always someone who would answer a question with any situation that came up. He has always endorsed union relationships while addressing our union at-will probationary new members. I have known him for over 21 years and have full confidence Mike would be an asset in any work he seeks in his future endeavors or working relationships.
Mike Allen
ATU Local 85
Business agent-Operators
I first met Mike during a visit to Pittsburgh Regional Transit in June of 2023 while attending EnoMAX. Mike brought me up to his office along with a few members of his management team to advise me on my business project. During lunch we also discussed recruiting, effective leadership, transit operations and rail infrastructure. After returning home, I applied for a couple of management positions. I called Mike for advise, and he provided me a lot of pertinent insight. It was because of my conversations with Mike that I began my journey into grad school at the University of Colorado for my Master's in Public Administration. Our conversations have inspired me to grow in ways I had not imagined only a few years ago.
Mike is someone who genuinely cares for other success, both professionally and in life outside of work. He is relentlessly supportive and taps into a wealth of experience when providing guidance. Mike's unique and optimistic perspective fosters motivation and sound guidance for professional success while reminding me to stay grounded.
Joe Hopfner
RTD
I am writing this regarding Mike Heidkamp and some of the experiences I had working with him. We worked for the same company and Mike was in a leadership position and I for the local union. Mike was always more than fair and was willing to resolve issues when they arose. When covid came along Mike came to work every day while others were working from home. Mike was always was on time for meetings, and always would make everyone in the room feel welcomed. I have known Mike for over 25 years and would recommend him to anyone I know. If I had my own business and needed five people to run it, I would hire five Mikes!
Jim McDonough
ATU Local 85
Business Agent-Maintenance
In 2014 I was hired by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority as a grade 4 Electronic Equipment Maintainer. In 2017 I was promoted to Electronic Repair Supervisor and then Electronic Repair Manager in 2018. I was awarded an APTF scholarship in 2020 and enrolled in the APTA Mentoring program. After reading through the mentor’s bios, I requested Mike since we both had been promoted from the union. As soon as Mike and I started a dialogue, it was evident that he was a wealth of insight and experience. Mike is a very genuine person and truly cares in the development of others. He was very active in getting to know my position and my organization. I traveled to his Authority in Pittsburgh for a comprehensive tour of the infrastructure and vehicles. He introduced me to his colleagues, some of which I still collaborate with. Even after the mentoring program had ended, Mike would still touch base and even came out to Cleveland to tour the Authority and meet with our front office personnel.
The greatest impact that Mike had on me was in my development as a leader and business professional. I was very proficient in the technology and field engineering of my department, but I was not very developed in my business professional skillset. Mike pushed me outside of my comfort zone and I began to have greater success communicating with my executive level management and peers. I was able to strengthen those relationships and get greater buy-in from others on projects and initiatives related to my department. Inside my own department, I invested heavily in the GCRTA’s summer intern program and have had success managing 4 interns in my project management program. I modified my approach to my management team direct reports and invested in pushing them to greater professional development and communication within our organization.
Mike is the genuine article. A hard-working professional that has succeeded at every level of a transit organization. He is deeply committed to the success of those around him and has very keen insights into professional development. He has had an enormous impact on the way I perform my job and the way that I approach my team and mentees. I greatly appreciate his continued support and the professional relationships he has facilitated for me. Mike receives my highest recommendation as a mentor and professional developer, and I truly appreciate the time we have worked together.
Christopher Weil
Electronic Repair Manager - GCRTA
Mike Heidkamp has been invaluable, his many years in public transportation has been inspiring. He always leads by example and is always coaching his people. Mike has taught me how to be a leader by putting your people first. Even when he was not directly talking to you, if you paid attention, you learned something. I had many conversations with Mike and I always took something from each conversation. I don’t think I would be where I am today if not for him, he is a great leader and coach. I am a better person from working with him.
Gary Pearsol
Director of Service Delivery
Collier Division
Mike Heidkamp, former Chief Operations Officer – Transportation at Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT), is a standout example of transformative leadership and mentorship in public transportation.
Over his 30-year career at Port Authority of Allegheny County now known as Pittsburgh Regional Transit, Mike led with purpose, integrity, and a strong belief in the power of people. He approached leadership not just as a function of oversight, but as an opportunity to mentor, guide, and elevate those around him. His people-first philosophy centered on empowering frontline employees — recognizing their insights as vital to operational excellence.
Mike was the kind of leader who led by example — steady, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in the growth of others. He trusted his team and gave them the autonomy to lead, encouraging accountability, innovation, and ownership at every level. His mentoring style built confidence, developed future leaders, and strengthened the organization from within.
Those who worked closely with Mike remember his calm presence, strategic mind, and deep respect for the workforce. He was a mentor in the truest sense — someone who listened, supported, and helped others see their potential.
Mike Heidkamp’s legacy isn’t just measured by initiatives or titles, but by the leaders he helped shape and the culture he left behind — one grounded in trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Charles Reeves
Chief Transportation Officer
Pittsburgh Regional Transit
Mike and I have known each other for over two decades now.
When I started my career at Port Authority of Allegheny County Mike was my instructor that was assigned to me to teach me to acquire my CDL during my training period.
Since that time our relationship has grown dramatically as our careers evolved.
While we both are in different roles now, we've had to work together through the union and management over the last 5 plus years together.
Mike is a proponent of doing what's right not necessarily what is easy. This is a characteristic of true leadership.
Mike would be an asset to any organization or business venture that he takes part in. Mike is also very passionate about all his ventures and endeavors. This is a great characteristic derived from a great work ethic.
Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions regarding this correspondence or need more information regarding Mr. Heidkamp.
Ross Nicotero III
President - Business Agent
ATU Local 85